Winter visits to Chester Zoo

Plan your visit with our winter itinerary – explore indoor habitats, see new arrivals and experience the wonder of the zoo during the winter months.

See the new arrivals

As you explore, spot some of our newest arrivals – including a snow leopard cub, baby Sumatran orangutan, fossa pups and four bush dog cubs!

Winter is a great time to visit, with a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of chances to see young animals active and exploring their habitats.

Snow Leopard Cub Bheri Ventures Outside For The First Time At Chester Zoo5

Explore our indoor habitats

Warm up indoors and see what’s happening in more than ten habitats across the zoo.

Many have a warm, tropical climate - including Monsoon Forest and Tropical Realm - making them the perfect places to explore on a winter day.

Plan your visit

Book an Experience

Make your visit even more special with an Experience. From the penguin experience to other unique opportunities, it’s a chance to learn more from our expert keepers and see how we care for some of the world’s most remarkable species.

Explore our zoological gardens

Take a peaceful wander through our award-winning zoological gardens. The flowers may not all be in bloom, but as frost sparkles on the leaves, you’ll find hardy winter plants and bursts of colour along the quieter paths.

Plants & Gardens

Stay late for Lanterns & Light

After dark, the zoo will transform after dark into a glowing winter wonderland of light, colour and sound.

Plan your visit

Enjoy winter warmers at The Oakfield

Take a break from exploring and enjoy a hearty meal at The Oakfield, our Victorian pub at the heart of the zoo.

With comforting dishes, local ingredients and a cosy atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to relax and refuel on a winter day.

Turn your visit into a winter getaway

Stay overnight in a luxury lodge at The Reserve, surrounded by nature, with seasonal dining, campfires and lakeside views.

Choose from our festive packages - Lakeside Lanterns & Light or Santa’s Ultimate Festive Stay - for a winter escape full of wonder.

Book your stay